HOUSTON — The wait is finally over for Rico Richardson.

The former Natchez High School and Jackson State standout agreed to a deal with the Houston Texans Monday, more than two months after being let go by the Kansas City Chiefs at the conclusion of the NFL preseason.

Wednesday was Richardson’s first day of practice with the Texans, and he said he was glad his patience led to an opportunity with another NFL team.

“When I got the news, I was happy,” Richardson said. “My agent said patience was the key, and I just had to wait for the right time. I guess that time was now. I’m just happy for the opportunity and am ready to make the best of it.”

Richardson had a workout with the Texans two weeks ago and was signed to the practice squad after another practice squad player, Andy Cruse, was put on the team’s injury reserve, he said. The past two months were difficult, Richardson said, and left him wondering if he would ever get another shot at the NFL.

“It was crazy,” Richardson said. “I was like, ‘Man, what did I do wrong? Is it over for me?’ I could’ve gone to the (Canadian Football League), but my agent told me not to and told me I needed to wait. It all played out for the best.”

After his first day of practice, Richardson said things seem fast because he’s trying to learn the playbook, but there were at least some similarities to his time in Kansas City.

“It’s just a lot right now, but it’s a lot of the stuff I saw with the Chiefs, so I think I’ll catch onto it pretty quick,” he said.

Of course, Richardson’s ultimate goal is to make the 53-man roster, and he said he would work hard every day to make that dream a reality.

“I’m out there to prove everything, that I can play in this league,” Richardson said. “I have one thing you can’t coach, and that’s speed. The coaches have told me they need someone to stretch the field.”